Mohali, April 15 -- A hunger strike by farmers and landowners opposing land acquisition for the Aerotropolis project in Mohali, ongoing since March 25, was called off today after the Punjab government accepted key demands and issued assurances. The protest reflected continuing unrest over land pooling and compensation concerns. Housing and urban development minister Hardeep Singh Mundian and MLA Kulwant Singh facilitated the resolution at the GMADA office, where the agitation had continued for weeks. The strike ended after farmer leaders were offered juice to end the hunger strike, in the presence of senior officials, including GMADA chief administrator Sakshi Sawhny and land acquisition officer Rohit Jindal. The Aerotropolis project, planned around the Mohali International Airport, involves large-scale urban expansion requiring acquisition of agricultural land. Farmers from eight villages had opposed the move, citing lack of consent and inadequate compensation, and alleged that high-value land near the airport was acquired at throwaway prices despite earlier attempts to resolve the issue through discussions. Addressing the gathering, Mundian said the government, under chief minister Bhagwant Mann, remains committed to safeguarding farmers' interests and asserted that no land acquisition would proceed without their consent. He clarified that acquisition for Aerotropolis blocks would only move forward with farmers' approval. Among the key decisions, the validity of the Sahuliyat (Facilitation) certificate has been extended from two to four years, effective from the date of award payment or issuance of the Letter of Intent. The time limit for applying for tubewell connections has also been extended to four years, with the concerned department directed to ensure installation within two months on priority. In a move aimed at ensuring transparency, all plots, including those in preferential locations, will now be allotted through a draw of lots. Regarding development works in pockets A, B, C and D, pending compensation, linked to legal proceedings and valuation of orchards and structures, will be deposited in the reference court, while development will be expedited and compensation outside the disputed ambit released promptly. The government has also committed to completing all development works within three years from the date of land possession. Enhanced land pooling benefits include a marginal increase in both residential and commercial entitlements, offering improved returns to landowners under the scheme. Additionally, all eligible farmers will be issued oustee certificates and allotted plots at scheme rates based on their landholding, while conveyance deed charges have been waived for original landowners. Essential village infrastructure such as government schools, parks and dispensaries will be kept out of acquisition, and civic services like sewerage, water supply and stormwater systems will be integrated with GMADA infrastructure. Houses along the village phirni will remain exempt from acquisition, while those falling outside the residential limit of the village (abadi limits) will be appropriately relocated....